Bowling Balls (Bowling Play Styles) Frequently Asked Questions
updated: April, 2026Have a question about bowling play styles? This is the place where we've gathered all our questions about bowling play styles from our guides and articles, so you can find expert answers quickly and get back to bowling. For the quickest answers, use the search bar below.
Q: What are the main types of bowlers in ten pin bowling?
A: There are six common bowler types: Strokers, Crankers, Tweeners (Power Strokers), Two Handers, Spinners, and Straight Bowlers. Each type is defined by ball speed, rev rate, release style, and how the ball reacts on the lane. Knowing your type helps you choose the right equipment and line to the pocket for better consistency and higher scores.Q: What type of bowling ball should a stroker use?
A: Strokers who have moderate speed and lower revs (200 to 300 RPM) should use balls with smooth arcing motion. Good choices include symmetrical core reactive balls like the Storm Phaze II, Brunswick Danger Zone, or Hammer Raw Solid. These provide control and consistency without too much aggression.Q: What bowling ball is best for a cranker?
A: Crankers with high rev rates (400 plus RPM) and fast speed need aggressive equipment to handle their power. Recommended balls include asymmetrical core reactive options like the Hammer Black Widow series, Ebonite The One Ovation, or Storm Ion Max. These create strong angular backend reaction for maximum pin carry.Q: What type of bowler is a two hander and what ball do they need?
A: Two handers generate very high revs (500 to 700 plus RPM) and speed by using both hands on the ball. They benefit from high performance reactive balls with asymmetrical cores such as Hammer Black Widow 3.0 or Ebonite The One Ovation. These balls handle extreme revs and create powerful angular hook.Q: Should straight bowlers or spinners use reactive bowling balls?
A: No. Straight bowlers and spinners who throw with little or no hook do best with plastic or polyester balls like the Brunswick TZone series or Columbia 300 White Dot. These low friction coverstocks keep the ball going straight with minimal hook, which is ideal for accuracy, spare shooting, and dry lane conditions.
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